GRANDPARENTS ALSO CAN TALK TO YOUTH ABOUT DRUG ABUSE

Most of the 60 million grandparents in the United States do not
realize the important role they play in influencing their
grandchildren's lives -- especially when it comes to drugs. According
to AARP, grandparents cite drugs, alcohol, and sex as the most
difficult topics to discuss with their grandkids.

Grandparents are looking for guidance on how to talk to their
grandkids about difficult topics. In fact, according to a recent AARP
survey, 54 percent of grandparents would find information about
discussing drugs somewhat or very useful. Here are a few strategies
for grandparents to keep their grandkids drug free:

Start -- It is never too early to prevent your grandchildren from
trying drugs. Simple gestures, such as letting your grandchild know
you care, serve as protective factors and play an important role in
deterring them from drugs. State your position clearly and often. One
of the major reasons teens decide not to use drugs is the fear that
their parents or other family members will lose respect for them.
Teens do not want to let down their families.

Connect -- Take the opportunity to build lines of communication and
do things regularly with your grandkids. Spend time together -- eat
dinner with them, read together, play a game, go shopping, go to the
movies, attend a baseball game or go sightseeing together. Use
opportunities like family gatherings or inviting your grandchildren
to stay overnight to show that fun things don't require drugs.

Listen -- Take a more active interest in what is going on in your
grandchild's life. Listen to his or her cares and concerns by
fostering family openness and communication. In this way, youngsters
will feel more comfortable to open up to you when they need your
advice.

For free resources on the Internet, check out the Web site at
www.theantidrug.com/grandparents for tips to help grandparents
discuss substance abuse with their grandchildren. Or, visit the
Central Nebraska Council on Alcoholism at 219 W. Second St., or call
385-5520.

Prevention Works! is provided by the Central Nebraska Council on
Alcoholism in Grand Island. CNCA is supported in part by Hall County,
Heartland United Way, and federal and state funds through the
Nebraska Department of Public Institutions-Division on Alcoholism and
Drug Abuse and Region III Substance Abuse and Mental Health
Administration.